Lavender Bird Kicks Off Campaign for Mayor

Jackie Lavender Bird kicked off her campaign for Mayor of Melrose at the Ell Pond Gazebo Friday, June 28. Friends and supporters were joined by people walking by and neighbors interested to learn more about the candidate for our City’s top office. Together, they enjoyed the beautiful evening with lemonade, music, and lawn games, as they talked with Lavender Bird about their hopes and expectations for the future of Melrose.

Addressing the crowd, Lavender Bird explained why she has entered the mayoral race. “After 20 years of experience working on behalf of the people of Melrose, I am running for Mayor because I am fully invested in the future of our city. And with my experience, my approach and my commitment, I am uniquely qualified to lead our city on day one.”

For those following this mayoral race closely, it seems the five candidates are talking about similar plans and similar topics. As Lavender Bird explained, “We should be. Many of the opportunities and challenges facing Melrose are obvious to all of us, like the need for strong and transparent fiscal management, public safety improvements, strategic economic development, upgrading the city’s infrastructure, environmental sustainability and improved public education.”

She went on to differentiate herself, saying, “Here’s what I will bring that’s unique: My leadership experience in City Hall is not only relevant, it’s critical. I know what it takes to manage an $86 million budget, oversee department heads and employees, foster union relationships, and guarantee city services are delivered. I have a track record of making independent decisions. I am not afraid to ask hard questions, stand up for what is important and maintain high expectations. And I have a proven ability to deliver results. With a clear understanding of our priorities, I will turn ideas into action.”

Michelle Walsh Carson, an active community volunteer and Board Chair of Melrose Grad Night, introduced Lavender Bird exclaiming that she is the best choice for mayor because she “gets it”. “Jackie gets what it’s like to grow up here, to celebrate our history and embrace change. She gets what it takes to be a mom here, to support our teachers and see room for improvement in our schools. She gets how to serve a community, as an elected alderman/city councilor, as a nonprofit director and serving on the leadership team in City Hall. Jackie gets it because she IS it. Jackie is Melrose.”

Closing the evening, Lavender Bird shared her commitment to lead. “I have had a seat at the table on the leadership team at City Hall, working to ensure our city’s government is as good as you deserve. That experience has opened my eyes and ignited my passion to lead this city. And while I am so proud of Melrose, I am quite clear that we have work to do. And I am ready to do it!”

Lavender Bird is grateful to those who have already shared their support for her candidacy. And for those still deciding, she looks forward to earning their vote to be the next Mayor of Melrose.